Sunday, February 22, 2015

Dear Malala, We Stand with You by Rosemary McCarney -- ADVISABLE

McCarney, Rosemary and Plan International Dear Malala, We Stand with You. PICTURE BOOK. Crown Books for Young Readers, 2014. $16.99. Content: PG.

An introduction gives some background on Malala Yousafzai who, along with several others, was shot for speaking out about the importance of education for girls. Despite the odds, she survived her terrible head wound and has gone on to advocate for educational rights worldwide. An open letter to Malala follows the introduction, complete with photographs of many strong, grateful girls and young women from around the world. Following the letter are sections of Malala's 2013 speech to the United Nations' Youth Assembly and a list of ways to help the cause.

What a moving book! Honestly, I got so choked-up while reading it to myself that I have no idea how it'll go when I try to read it aloud to students. Still, the message is important, and the photos and facts are absolutely fascinating. Because of the heavy subject matter, this one may work better for older elementary school students, and even middle- or high-schoolers. It would be a very helpful addition to class discussions or research projects on education, poverty, female rights, or similar subjects.

EL, MS, HS -- ADVISABLE. Reviewer: Caryn

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